How can we prepare for God's call during times of spiritual darkness? The Moment of Darkness “ For three days he was without sight, and he did not eat or drink.” — Acts 9:9 Key observations • Sudden darkness: Saul’s world goes black—literally and spiritually. • Voluntary stillness: No eating, no drinking. • Complete dependence: He cannot guide himself; he waits. Why God Allows These Seasons • To stop our self-directed momentum (Acts 26:14). • To empty us of competing voices (Psalm 46:10). • To position us to hear fresh instruction (Isaiah 30:15). Preparing in the Dark: Practical Steps • Remove the noise – Fast selectively: news feeds, entertainment, unnecessary conversations (Daniel 10:2-3). – Create daily silence: even ten minutes with no phone, no music. • Immerse in Scripture – Read aloud; the spoken word pierces gloom (Psalm 119:105). – Memorize one verse each day; truth lights the next step. • Embrace bodily discipline – Consider short fasts from food as health allows (Matthew 6:16-18). – Keep the body low so the spirit can listen high. • Wait with expectancy – Write what you hope God will clarify; leave space for His answer (Habakkuk 2:1-3). – Refuse rash action until He gives light (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Welcome trusted believers – Saul needed Ananias; darkness is eased through fellowship (Acts 9:17). – Seek those who will pray and speak Scripture over you (Hebrews 10:24-25). Biblical Snapshots of Preparation • Moses: forty years of Midian quiet before the burning bush (Exodus 3:1-4). • Samuel: night silence pierced by God’s voice; he answered, “Speak, for Your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:10). • Elijah: cave stillness, gentle whisper, new assignment (1 Kings 19:12-16). Signs You Are Ready to Move Forward • Renewed clarity of purpose—God’s direction aligns with Scripture. • Fresh humility—plans now begin with prayer. • New compassion—darkness has softened sharp edges. Living It Out Today • Schedule weekly “blind spots”: unplug, open Bible, sit quietly. • Keep a readiness journal: record burdens lifted, insights gained. • Stay teachable—darkness may return, but each episode trains ears to recognize His call more quickly. |
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